Bonhams’ Sale Sets 3 World Records

Rubies, sapphires, and a very special grayish-blue diamond were among the top lots

The Dec. 5 fine jewelry sale at Bonhams London garnered $10.2 million and set three world records.

An 2.97 ct. grayish-blue diamond ring designed by Andrew Grima sold for $2.2 million, smashing its highest estimate of $1 million. The sale set two world records: one for price-per-carat of a grayish-blue diamond and one for a Grima design.

The other top lot was a pair of Kashmir sapphire earrings, 7.92 ct. and 7.96 ct., respectively. The pair, which date from the 19th century and were once owned by an unnamed European princess, sold for $2.3 million, beating its highest estimate of $1.2 million.

“These lots attracted interest from around the globe because of their exceptional quality and rarity,” said Jean Ghika, director of jewelry for the U.K. and Europe at Bonhams. “The prices achieved reflect the buoyancy of the market for colored gemstones of the highest quality. We anticipate 2016 to be very much the year of color. It is exciting to see such wonderful pieces being appreciated by a discerning international clientele.”

Rubies from Burma and Madagascar also performed well. A belle époque ruby and diamond pendant set with a 3.83 ct. Burmese ruby sold for $194,000, triple its high estimate of $60,000, and a 10.8 ct. Madagascan ruby ring sold for $356,000 and set a new world record for price-per-carat for a Madagascan ruby.